At Walt Disney World, the Art of Animation Resort has been opening in phases since May. The Little Mermaid rooms officially open September 15, which will complete the unveiling of this new resort.
The Little Mermaid wing was originally planned to be an addition to Disney’s Pop Century resort. After the economy collapsed and tourism slowed, the buildings were mothballed for several years until it made economic sense to finish the construction. Because of this, the Little Mermaid wing is the only section of the Art of Animation resort that has exterior hallways. Aside from this detail, you’d never know that this was intended to be themed in a completely different way.
Check out our photos of the Finding Nemo family suites
Similar to the other portions of the resort, the Little Mermaid wing offers a mix of standard rooms and family suites. This is considered a Value resort under Disney’s pricing model. That said, the family suites will often be more expensive than rooms in the Deluxe category because they can accommodate more people. We’ve found the family suites can range from $295-$400 per night depending on the time of year you intend to visit.
Check out our photo tour of the Art of Animation lobby and pool
The neat thing about the Art of Animation resort is that it is the first hotel we can think of where you truly are immersed by Disney theming. Other Disney resorts have lavish themes that are not directly tied to Disney movies. But at this resort, the landscaping, building design, decorations, room decor, and even the shower curtains all give you the impression that you are stepping into the film.
Check out our tour of the Lion King rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation
The best part of this resort is that the oversized figures create some amazing photo opportunities. The Cars themed section is the best for the photo opportunities because all of the characters are at ground level. The Lion King and Little Mermaid sections have huge statues of the main characters, but they are behind planters or elevated in such a way that you can’t pose with the characters. But they will make great props in the background of your photos.
Check out our photo tour of Disney’s Art of Animation Cars rooms
The Little Mermaid wing has its own pool, which is fitting for an aquatic based movie (the Lion King section does not have its own pool). We love the outdoor theming with the light posts and Ariel’s various treasures scattered about. The plants have the look of something you’d find underwater.
Overall, Disney did a great job with the design of this resort and it is great to see this final section open its doors. Even if you don’t stay at Disney’s Art of Animation, it is worth stopping by just to take photos. The outdoor theming is open to anyone and makes for some great photo opportunities.
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Photos via WDW News Today
This hotel looks simply gorgeous.
I will be staying here with my 2 daughters in April. This place looks awesome they are going to LOVE it! I can’t wait!
I was also impressed with the look of this hotel. Only Disney could offer a hotel like this where you’re staying in the middle of one of their movies. Our family has stayed in the Fort Wilderness cabins in the past, but I think we’ll try one of the Art of Animation family suites next time. I hope your family has a great trip!